Crate training can be a lifesaver

Many people think using a crate to train your dog is cruel and not appropriate. However, a crate can be your - and your dog’s - best friend. A crate is a safe place where your pet can feel safe and secure.

It is not a cage and should never be used for punishment.

Crate training your pet is fairly easy, given a little time and patience. A crate can be the solution to many common behavior problems. A crated dog will not destroy your home or have potty accidents everywhere.

Pet-owners will find two types of crates: a wire crate or an airline-style plastic one. Both have their pros and cons, and some dogs will prefer one over the other. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

The crate should be big enough for your dog to stand up, lay down and turn around in. It should not be big enough for them to potty in one corner and be able to get away with it. Dogs usually have an instinct to not potty where they sleep.

When you start to accustom your pet to a crate, keep it fun and exciting. Toss in yummy pieces of treats and allow your pet to investigate the crate without being locked in. Once your dog is comfortable going in and out of the crate, get them inside and shut the door, then slowly increase the time.

I also feed my dogs in their crates, which helps them get accustomed quickly. All good things come to them when in their crates. You also can put a favorite toy or something like a food-stuffed toy, such as a Kong, inside the crate with them.

Remember to be patient and keep things positive. If your dog starts to cry, don’t let him out immediately. That only teaches your pet that you will let your dog out when he or she cries. Have them be quiet, even for a second, and then let them out.

If your pet is uneasy in the crate, you may try leaving a TV or radio on or even covering the crate to make it more den-like. A cover also will keep your pet from barking at anything that may be distracting.

Crates can be a life-saver. My dogs love their crates, and even when they are free roaming the house, they choose to be in their crates. It’s their safe spot and where they feel most comfortable.

Some dogs are great escape artists and may break out of a crate no matter what you do. There are other types of crates built for those types of dogs. If your pet is escaping, you don’t want him to become injured trying to escape. My Brutus is becoming one of these escape artists, especially during storms. I'm not sure how he manages to fit his big, blocky head through the wire, but he does. Now when it storms and I’m home, I let him out. He’s still anxious with the storms, but at least he’s not being injured.